About the Project
The purpose of the Early Years Resources webpage is to strengthen the capacity of foster caregivers to better support the mental, emotional and social development of children under the age of six. It is important that foster parents understand the importance of early childhood development and their pivotal role in supporting children and families during this critical stage. This project is aligned with the Ministry of Children and Family Development’s commitment under the ‘A Pathway to Hope’ Mental Health Strategy whose cornerstone is child and youth mental health.
The Early Years Resources page is designed to be a one-stop resource for foster caregivers or anyone in a parenting role looking for information relating to early childhood development, mental health and neurodevelopmental challenges, and Indigenous cultural safety resources. The resource page is split into three sections: (1) Why the Early Years Matter, (2) Mental Health and Neurodevelopment Challenges, and (3) Indigenous Cultural Safety Resources. The format is intentionally bite-sized–with easily accessible and digestible content–so that users can pick and choose the topics that they are interested in, meeting the needs of busy foster caregivers. The language is also simple and easy to understand with no technical terms that may make it difficult to understand. Foster caregivers will also find several interactive tools which include a free mobile microlearning course, animated videos, quizzes, and downloadable tip sheets and worksheets. While the intended audience is foster caregivers across the province of British Columbia, the resource page is also helpful for those who work with children under the age of six.
The Early Years Resources page will be updated on an ongoing basis, depending on resource updates, and new scientific research and evidence-based practices. The inclusion of resources is not an endorsement; it is up to each individual learner to determine which resource works best for them. If you know of a great resource we should include in the Early Years Resources page, please email us at office@bcfosterparents.ca.
Healthy development in the early years provides the building blocks for lifelong health and wellbeing. Early intervention works. Intervention is likely to be more effective when it is provided earlier in life rather than later. The connections in a baby’s brain are most adaptable in the first six years of life. Over time, these connections become harder to change or repair. Early intervention supports and services can change a child’s developmental path and improve outcomes for children, families, and communities. Acting early gives a child the chance to receive appropriate supports and services, giving them the best chance for a positive future.
Phone
Main:
604-544-1110
Toll-Free Foster Parent Line:
1-800-663-9999
Office hours: 8:30 am - 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday
PROVINCIAL CENTRALIZED SCREENING
Foster parents are encouraged to call this number in the event of an EMERGENCY or CRISIS occurring after regular office hours:
1-800-663-9122
REPORT CHILD ABUSE
If you think a child or youth under 19 years of age is being abused or neglected, you have the legal duty to report your concern to a child welfare worker. Phone 1 800 663-9122 at any time of the day or night. Visit the Government of BC website for more info.
address
BCFPA Provincial Office
Suite 208 - 20641 Logan Avenue
Langley, BC V3A 7R3
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Charitable Registration #
106778079 RR 0001
Our work takes place on the traditional and unceded Coast Salish territories of the Kwantlen, Katzie, Matsqui and Semiahmoo First Nations. BCFPA is committed to reconciliation with all Indigenous communities, and creating a space where we listen, learn and grow together.
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